(PADUCAH, Ky.) — The American Red Cross is calling on Kentuckians to roll up their sleeves this May, warning that the end of the school year and the start of summer vacation season regularly trigger a drop in blood donation appointments — putting patients at risk.
Officials with the Red Cross Kentucky Region say just one hour of a donor’s time could help patients celebrate more milestones with their loved ones in the weeks ahead. The organization is urging donors of all blood types, as well as platelet donors, to book an appointment now before busy summer schedules make it harder to follow through.
“Giving in May sets donors up to return over the summer and maximize their impact,” the Red Cross said in a statement. Appointments can be scheduled at RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767), or through the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
Incentives for May Donors
To sweeten the deal, the Red Cross is offering gifts to all who donate this month. Donors who give between May 1 and May 17 will receive a $20 Amazon gift card by email, courtesy of Amazon. Those who donate between May 18 and May 31 will receive an oversized Red Cross beach towel, while supplies last. Full details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Amazon.
Blood Drive Locations in Kentucky (May 6–31)
The Red Cross has scheduled numerous blood drives at locations across Western Kentucky through the end of the month. Here is a full list of Kentucky sites:
Paducah Blood Donation Center
4635 Falconcrest Drive, Paducah, KY 42001
Multiple dates daily, May 6–31 (call or visit site for full schedule)
Benton Banking Center
221 W. 5th St., Benton, KY 42025
May 22, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Christ the King Catholic Church
1600 Kingsway Drive, Madisonville, KY 42431
May 27, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
First Baptist Church
115 Second St., Fulton, KY 42041
May 12, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
First United Methodist Church
210 S. Washington St., Clinton, KY 42031
May 18, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Fredonia Mennonite Church
16848 Marion Road, Fredonia, KY 42411
May 15, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Hazel Community Center
100 Barnett St., Hazel, KY 42049
May 14, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Ingram Barge Company
1000 S. 3rd St., Paducah, KY 42003
May 28, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Livingston Hospital Foundation Community Building
131 Hospital Drive, Salem, KY 42078
May 20, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Lyon County Convention Center @ Lee S. Jones Park
172 Lee S. Jones Park, Eddyville, KY 42038
May 26, 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Morgantown Mission
109 S. Main St., Morgantown, KY 42261
May 28, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
St. John’s Episcopal Church
1620 W. Main St., Murray, KY 42071
May 7 & May 21, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Twin Lakes Worship Center
4166 US-641, Benton, KY 42025
May 29, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
University Church of Christ
801 N. 12th St., Murray, KY 42071
May 27, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
VFW Post 6291
926 S. 12th St., Murray, KY 42071
May 19, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Woodmen Life
1005 Poplar St., Benton, KY 42025
May 11, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Who Can Donate?
Most people 17 and older (16 with parental consent in some states) who weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health are eligible to donate. High school students and donors 18 or younger must also meet certain height and weight requirements. Donors are asked to bring a blood donor card, driver’s license, or two other forms of identification at check-in.
Donors can save time by completing their pre-donation health history questionnaire online on the day of their donation through the RapidPass® feature at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or the Blood Donor App.
Volunteer Opportunities
Those who aren’t able to donate can still help. The Red Cross is recruiting volunteer blood donor ambassadors to greet, check in, and thank donors at blood drives. Volunteers can also serve as transportation specialists, delivering blood products to nearby hospitals. To apply, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches lifesaving skills; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public. For more information, visit redcross.org.
Media Contacts:
Amber Youngblood — 502-561-3711 — amber.youngblood@redcross.org
Amy Miller — 502-561-3711 — amy.miller2@redcross.org
